The Critical Review of the Growing Trend of Popular Naat in Contemporary Naat Poetry

عصرِ حاضر میں نعت نگاری پر عوامی نعت کے بڑھتے ہوئے رجحان کا تنقیدی جائزہ

Abstract

This study presents a critical analysis of the growing trend of popular naat in contemporary Urdu naat literature. Naat poetry is a sacred and dignified genre in Urdu literature, wherein the emotions of love and devotion to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are expressed with artistic finesse and religious reverence. However, in recent decades, naat has evolved into a form of popular expression, where simplicity of language, emotional tone, and immediate impact have taken precedence. While this trend has played a significant role in raising religious awareness among the masses, it has also led to a decline in the literary, artistic, and theological standards of naat. This paper critically and analytically explores the definition, causes, impact, and scope of popular naat. The research reveals that although this form of naat has succeeded in bringing the love of the Prophet ﷺ to the hearts of the common people, it has at times compromised on literary quality, intellectual depth, metrical accuracy, and religious boundaries. The study concludes with key recommendations to preserve the sanctity and literary integrity of naat writing.